The Spirt of Progress was designed under Victorian Railways Commissioner Harold Clapp, who oversaw every detail. The train was built entirely at the Newport Workshops using Australian materials and labour. The Spirt of Progress entered service on the 25th November 1937. It was launched as Australia’s first fully streamlined, air‑conditioned, all‑steel express train service. The key innovations of the train included the full blue-and-gold livery with winged VR monogram, air‑conditioning, sound‑insulated walls, double‑glazed windows, a luxurious parlour observation car, dining car, richly finished timber interiors and a hostess on board, a first in Australian rail travel. The service initially operated Melbourne to Albury as the premier Victorian Railways service. In 1962, the Melbourne–Sydney standard gauge opened and The Spirit of Progress service was extended to Sydney, becoming the prestige overnight intercapital train. The former steam locomotives were replaced by diesel locomotives. The Spirit of Progress made its final run on 2nd August 1986 and the service was replaced by the more modern but less ceremonially named Sydney – Melbourne Express and later the XPT.The Spirt of Progress was a popular slight for the local Albion, Keilor & Sunshine North residents as it travelled along the Melbourne to Sydney trainline, blowing its whistle at the various road and pedestrian crossings and spectators along the route.5852.01 - The Spirit of Progress Train 1985 42217 5852.02 - The Spirit of Progress Train 1985 42217the spirit of progress train, sunshine, harold clapp, newport workshops, weston langford

Victorian Railways Centenary 1854-1954 100 years of service booklet. Printed in glossy paper, page 1 contains article of 'condensed from a history of the Victorian Railways' which compiled by L.F. Harrigan. The contents include topics of Early private railways (1846-1878), The Melbourne and Hobsons Bay Railway Company - Gala opening, The Victorian government railways four periods of time (during 1856-1864, 1865-1911, 1883-1954, 1950 -1960). Photos inside include the seal of the Melbourne and Hobson's Bay Railway Company, South Yarra station 1874, opening of the Geelong and Melbourne railway June 25 1857, a hotel advertisement of 1857 featuring the Geelong and Melbourne railway - showing 'the British hotel Corio St Geelong, Spencer St station in 1872, the Taradale viaduct, on the Bendigo line in 1864, Harcourt station in 1865, Spirit of Progress, train on the Gembrook line. 1908 steam trains between Flinders St and Richmond the first electric train in Australia on a test run 6.10.1918, moving wheat by train 1901. The aircraft fuselages at Newport workshops during WWII, Bren gun carrier. Newport workshops at Queen Elizabeth Spencer St station 1954. The newsletter published by the Victorian Railways Public Relations and Betterment Board by the direction of the Commissioner.book, magazine, victorian railways, victorian railways / compiled by l.f. harrigan / -the melbourne and hobsons bay railway company - gala opening / south yarra station 1874 / published by the victorian railways public relations and betterment board by the direction of the commissioner

Sir Harold Winthrop Clapp KBE (7 May 1875 – 21 October 1952) was a transport administrator who over the course of thirty years had a profound effect on Australia's railway network. In two decades as its Chairman of Commissioners, he revolutionised Victorian Railways, with unprecedented attention to customer service and innovations such as more powerful locomotives, air-conditioned carriages, and faster services culminating in the introduction of the flagship Spirit of Progress express train. Seconded to the Federal Government in World War II, he played a pivotal role in the manufacture of fighter aircraft in the defence of Australia. As Director-General of Australia's Land Transport Board, he presented a report on railway gauge standardisation that ultimately led to the eventual linking of all Australian mainland capital cities by a uniform rail gauge. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harold_Winthrop_Clapp, accessed 02/10/2013)Grey, soft covered, stapled report of 89 pages. "Standardization of Australia's Railway Gauges" by Harold Clapp is a report and recommendation regarding the standarization of Australia's railway gauges. The contents include: * Lines suggested for conversion or new lines to be constructed * scheme of conversion of tracks and structures * scheme of conversion of locomotives and rolling stock * Estimated costs * Associated works * Estimated manpower which the project will absorb in its various phases *Standardization of rolling stock * Other considerations associated with the project * Estimated time involved in the various phases of the work. The report includes 8 maps: * Map of Australia showing the various proposals referred to *Map of Australian railways showing extent of standard gauge if proposals are carried out * Map of Australian railways as of 30 June 1944 *Map of Australia showing principal mileages referred to in the report * Railway Map of Western Australia, 1945 * Railway Map of South Australia, 1945 * Railway Map of Victoria, 1945 * Railway Map of Melbourne Suburbs, 1945 railway, guage, standardization, standardisation, fremantle, perth, kalgoorlie, peterborough, silverton, tramway, tram, train, townsville, dajarra, bourke, cunnamulla, charleville, blackall, longreach, winton, hughenden, townsville, gajarra, birdum, darwin, narrow gauge

Chairman of the Victorian Railways, Harold Clapp, established The Victorian Railways Public Relations and Betterment Board as part of a campaign to launch the Spirit of Progress – the first new train constructed during the Depression era. Clapp was an aggressive Chairman of Railway Commissioners who was determined to keep Victorian Railways prospering. This book was a promotion book for "The Gippslander". The Gippslander name has been used for trains in the Bairnsdale corridor since 1954This book is a useful research tool.A 28 pp paper back book, titled Gippsland and its Lakes and Caves Victoria Australia. The front cover has orange and black print with yellow, green and blue motifs on a white and yellow background. The book has a stapled spine. It contains a short description of each of Gippsland's towns, a centre, double page maap of the region and many b/w photographs.railway-transport gippsland clapp-harold

Kids of all ages enjoy the Miniature Railway. Published: Nillumbik Now and Then /​ Marguerite Marshall 2008; photographs Alan King with Marguerite Marshall.; p163 On Sundays in Eltham thousands of children, mums, dads and grandparents can be seen travelling around Lower Eltham Park in tiny trains. They are among the two and half million passengers who have travelled on the Diamond Valley Railway since it officially began in 1961. The miniature railway originally operated from the 1940s at Chelsworth Park, Ivanhoe, until flooding caused it to be moved to the Eltham Lower Park in 1959. The railway is modelled on the 1920s era – the heyday of passenger rail travel – and the trains are built on a scale of two inches to the foot (1/6). Although not exact replicas, trains include models of the Spirit of Progress, Puffing Billy, The Overland, Dog Boxes, Vic Rail S class, G class and a NSW 81 Class. The three and a half kilometres of track is set amongst native plants and picnic areas. A friendly hoot or the clang of a bell occasionally punctuates the tranquillity as a train emerges from a treed bend with passengers excitedly waving to onlookers. For $3 the train takes you on a 13-minute two-kilometre ride. Passengers sit in single file in the narrow train, which clatters along tracks built to the scale of the Australian narrow gauge of three feet six inches (1.1m). These are used in Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania and Western Australia. Safety standards are stringently kept. Even before you buy a ticket notices tell you that you must wear closed shoes. You can even borrow these, and you are given a pair of socks for the ride! Blue-overalled volunteers check tickets, see you aboard, and drive the train. They are mainly retired men who can at last devote their time to what little boys dream of – playing with trains. Passengers are instructed in safe behaviour, then the station master waves a white flag and off we go. The guard sits at the back with his whistle and green flag at the ready. The winding track, fringed by native trees and bushes planted by volunteers, stands on crown land managed by Nillumbik Council. The train clatters along the track and crosses a bridge over a drain elevated by name to The Blow Fly Creek. We pass by Meadmore Junction at a speed of three kilometres an hour. Then on through a tunnel, accompanied by squeals of delight, and after a few moments of blackness, light glimmers at the end. On we go, past the original platform, along another route past busy Main Road through Pine Creek Station, over a bridge and through another tunnel with more screams of delight.Then a signal stops us before the ‘all clear’ to return to our original point of departure. The railway services its passengers – the largest number of any miniature railway in Australia – with a fleet including: six diesel locomotives, three steam locomotives, eight sets of passenger cars and one battery electric Dog Box set. Members also privately own 20 locomotives and powered carriage sets as well as four carriage sets.1 All the trains are stored on-site in workshops, sheds and a tunnel. The railway is entirely run by volunteers, so that all ticket money is used for maintenance and extensions, and some goes to local charities. Since 1991, the entire railway has been rebuilt, including an upgraded signalling system. About half of the 120 volunteer members are active with about 35 working each Sunday, and a dozen or so working every Wednesday. Members are trained to positions of station assistant, booking officer, train guard, train driver or signalman. Members construct new carriages and locomotives as well as maintaining track, signalling and rolling stock.This collection of almost 130 photos about places and people within the Shire of Nillumbik, an urban and rural municipality in Melbourne's north, contributes to an understanding of the history of the Shire. Published in 2008 immediately prior to the Black Saturday bushfires of February 7, 2009, it documents sites that were impacted, and in some cases destroyed by the fires. It includes photographs taken especially for the publication, creating a unique time capsule representing the Shire in the early 21st century. It remains the most recent comprehenesive publication devoted to the Shire's history connecting local residents to the past. nillumbik now and then (marshall-king) collection, diamond valley railway, eltham lower park

A letter to The Secretary, Y Service Club of Eaglehawk from Colin Rutledge, President, Seymour Heritage Centre, dated 27 August 1999. Letter mentions the Heritage Centre is arranging to have its steam train in Bendigo during November 1999. Train and carriages are mentions and perhaps a vintage diesel locomotive. A number of short trips are mentioned and the time and cost. Some longer rides are also mentioned for the evening, preferably north of Bendigo. Number of passengers and charges are also mentioned. Two pages are also included which mentions the Fleet, Carriages and For more information. The last page mentions How it all started, Our aims, Depot Facilities, Depot Visitors and Memberships.bendigo, history, long gully history group, the long gully history group - seymour railway heritage centre incorporated, y service club of eaglehawk, colin rutledge, seymour loco steam preservation group, victorian railways locomotive depot, spirit of progress, transport corporation

VR Commissioner's Special train, steam locomotive D3-639 crossing the Echuca-Moama Road Rail Bridge over the Murray River from Moama, NSW to Echuca, Victoria. Commissioner Edgar Henry Brownbill on footplate, 1962. Commissioner Edgar Henry Brownbill was in office 1957 to 1967. George Coop advises - "The train on the Eltham/Moama bridge is actually the Commissioner’s Special on one of its inspection tours of the VR rail system. This was a very grand special train with accommodation for the Commissioner and staff in carriages also used once for the Royal Train and other State purposes. You can just see the Commissioner of the day, dressed in his suit and wearing engine drivers gloves, standing in the loco cab doorway. A good ‘hands on’ impression is created amongst local staff if can be seen that the boss is no ‘desk jockjey’. The observation car on the back was originally made for the ’Spirit of Progress’. I climbed up onto the bridge iron plate work to get this view. It was safe enough as the cantilevered pedestrian walkway was still on the east side at the time." "I was resident in Echuca from Jan. ’59 to approx. May ’64. At that time the single Echuca/Moama bridge was a combined road/rail bridge. The rail gauge was 5’3” and still is, I believe, on the new bridge that sits just upstream of the old one. This rail line into NSW has always been 5’3" gauge because it has no connection with any NSW tracks. The old Echuca/Moama bridge, locally called the ‘Iron Bridge’ has, over years, undergone some structural changes. The two lattice iron hoops arcing over the roadway have been raised and lowered and changed design. Presently a pedestrian walkway is cantilevered off the west (or downstream) side of the bridge. It used to be on the eastern side. Guess changes went in when new rail bridge only was built on the eastern side as well." Image dated as c.1963 based on same image in Port of Echuca collection (possibly frame 32 of film) (print 19.5 x 24.5cm) On reverse in pencil: "Brown card" in black pen: "Commissioners special. F. Brown on Footplate. George C.L. Coop c1963". https://victoriancollections.net.au/items/59d575b921ea6e1278d78042 However based on frame no. 10, date set as 1962Digital TIFF file Scan of 35mm Ilford FP3 black and white negative transparencyd3-639, d3-class steam locomotive, echuca-moama road rail bridge, edgar henry brownbill, george coop collection, murray river, vr commissioner's special train

In this picture can be seen steam locomotive J-521 and tender to which is attached State Car No. 5. It is believed that the other support carriages have been de-attached and the train has pulled up at the front of the platform allowing room for other trains to pull in. Immediately behind on the same track at the platform is a Diesel Electric Rail Motor (DERM) and C-class bogey (luggage) then a small (articulated) rail car (articulated) then a cattle van. On the adjacent track is State Car No. 2 (Melville) and a C-van. State Car No. 2 (Melville) was used a power generation car for special trains and the Train of Knowledge. State Car No. 5 is in the design of the Spirit of Progress. George Coop advised that the occasion is the visit of the Governor of Victoria, Sir Rohan Delacombe to Echuca in 1963. Delacombe had replaced Sir Dallas Brooks in May 1963 who had departed for England on the liner Iberia,11 April 1963 (1963 'SIR DALLAS ON WAY TO U.K.', The Canberra Times (ACT : 1926 - 1995), 9 April, p. 9. , viewed 27 Jan 2020, http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article104249252) George believes the Governor was doing a considerable formal train ride around the State and Echuca was on the schedule. The ‘platform’ was a special creation for such purposes, located on the wharf spur line that ran behind the Echuca Civic Centre. The large notice board commemorates the Queen’s visit on March 5th, 1954 for which the platform was initially built. From time to time it would get spruced up with pot plants, fresh paint and repaired hand rails for formal functions. George attended the Civic Reception held for the Governor. A picture of His Excellency Sir Rohan Delacombe, Governor of Victoria, and Lady Delacombe about to entrain at Spencer Street for a visit to western Victoria is available on page 4 of VICTORIAN RAILWAYS REPORT OF THE VICTORIAN RAILWAYS COMMISSIONERS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30th JUNE, 1963. (http://www.victorianrailways.net/vr%20history/annual_reports/vrar1963.pdf) More information about the Victorian Railways Royal Train https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Victorian_Railways_Royal_Train State Car No. 5 https://www.pjv101.net/cd/pages/c160v06.htm State Car No. 2 (Melville) https://www.pjv101.net/cd/pages/c160v03.htmDigital TIFF file Scan of 35mm Ilford FP3 black and white negative transparencycattle van, c-van, diesel electric rail motor (derm), echuca, echuca rail yard, echuca railway station, george coop collection, governor of victoria, j-521, rail car, royal train, power car, sir rohan delacombe, state car no. 2 (melville), state car no. 5, train of knowledge, victorian railways

In this picture The Royal Train is passing through a railway crossing along the Wharf Spur line. The train has been shortened comprising steam locomotive J-521 and tender to which is attached the State car. The State car is in the design of the Spirit of Progress. George Coop advised that the occasion is the visit of the Governor of Victoria, Sir Rohan Delacombe to Echuca in 1963. Delacombe had replaced Sir Dallas Brooks in May 1963 who had departed for England on the liner Iberia,11 April 1963 (1963 'SIR DALLAS ON WAY TO U.K.', The Canberra Times (ACT : 1926 - 1995), 9 April, p. 9. , viewed 27 Jan 2020, http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article104249252) George believes the Governor was doing a considerable formal train ride around the State and Echuca was on the schedule. The ‘platform’ was a special creation for such purposes, located on the wharf spur line that ran behind the Echuca Civic Centre. The large notice board commemorates the Queen’s visit on March 5th, 1954 for which the platform was initially built. From time to time it would get spruced up with pot plants, fresh paint and repaired hand rails for formal functions. George attended the Civic Reception held for the Governor. A picture of His Excellency Sir Rohan Delacombe, Governor of Victoria, and Lady Delacombe about to entrain at Spencer Street for a visit to western Victoria is available on page 4 of VICTORIAN RAILWAYS REPORT OF THE VICTORIAN RAILWAYS COMMISSIONERS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30th JUNE, 1963. (http://www.victorianrailways.net/vr%20history/annual_reports/vrar1963.pdf) More information about the Victorian Railways Royal Train https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Victorian_Railways_Royal_Train State Car No. 5 https://www.pjv101.net/cd/pages/c160v06.htm Digital TIFF file Scan of 35mm Ilford FP3 black and white negative transparencyechuca, george coop collection, governor of victoria, j-521, railway crossing, royal train, sir rohan delacombe, state car no. 5, victorian railways, wharf spur line

In this picture the Royal Train is pulled up with the State Car at the commemorative platform on the Wharf Spur line. The train has been shortened comprising steam locomotive J-521 and tender to which is attached the State car. The State car is in the design of the Spirit of Progress. The platform is lined with plants in planter boxes. Two men in suits standing to the right, one with a large camera – either press or official photographer. The sign on the platform commemortaes the visit of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth and His Royal Highness Phillip Duke of Edinburg on March 5th, 1954. George Coop advised that the occasion is the visit of the Governor of Victoria, Sir Rohan Delacombe to Echuca in 1963. Delacombe had replaced Sir Dallas Brooks in May 1963 who had departed for England on the liner Iberia,11 April 1963 (1963 'SIR DALLAS ON WAY TO U.K.', The Canberra Times (ACT : 1926 - 1995), 9 April, p. 9. , viewed 27 Jan 2020, http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article104249252) George believes the Governor was doing a considerable formal train ride around the State and Echuca was on the schedule. The ‘platform’ was a special creation for such purposes, located on the wharf spur line that ran behind the Echuca Civic Centre. The large notice board commemorates the Queen’s visit on March 5th, 1954 for which the platform was initially built. From time to time it would get spruced up with pot plants, fresh paint and repaired hand rails for formal functions. A picture of His Excellency Sir Rohan Delacombe, Governor of Victoria, and Lady Delacombe about to entrain at Spencer Street for a visit to western Victoria is available on page 4 of VICTORIAN RAILWAYS REPORT OF THE VICTORIAN RAILWAYS COMMISSIONERS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30th JUNE, 1963. (http://www.victorianrailways.net/vr%20history/annual_reports/vrar1963.pdf) More information about the Victorian Railways Royal Train https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Victorian_Railways_Royal_Train State Car No. 5 https://www.pjv101.net/cd/pages/c160v06.htmDigital TIFF file Scan of 35mm Ilford FP3 black and white negative transparencyechuca, george coop collection, governor of victoria, j-521, royal train, sir rohan delacombe, state car no. 5, victorian railways, wharf spur line

index, ill, maps, p.376.non-fictionA history of the Spirit of Progress passenger train between Melbourne and Sydney from the 1937 to 1986.railroad travel -- new south wales -- sydney -- history, railroad travel -- victoria -- melbourne -- history

ill, maps, p.12.non-fictionA promotional booklet for the launch of the Spirit of Progress passenger train between Melbourne and Sydney in 1937.railroad travel -- new south wales -- sydney -- history, railroad travel -- victoria -- melbourne -- history

ill, p.64.non-fictionA history of the Spirit of Progress passenger train between Melbourne and Sydney from the 1937 to 1986.railroads - passenger trains - australia, railroads - spirit of progress - history

Children's book by Edith Grieve (see reference) with illustrations of railway locomotives, trains and children. Has an advert for Pioneer Jelly Crystals on the rear. Includes a drawing of the Spirit of Progress and a Tait suburban train - the rest are English origin. National Library copy gives a date of 1943?Demonstrates a children's books with two Victorian / Melbourne drawings or illustrations.Book - 10 cardboard pages - printed in colourchildrens books, trains, spirit of progress, tait trains

The Fred Rochow Railways Collection incorporates photos related to the operation of the Wodonga Railway Station including different types of trains and railways staff C. 1930 – 1990. It was donated to the Wodonga Historical Society by Fred Rochow, a railwayman who spent many years based in Wodonga. He joined the Victorian Railways on 17th June l947 and retired in 1988. For some time, he was a member of the Australian Federated Union of Locomotive Enginemen and served a term as a member of the Trades Hall Council. He had an extensive knowledge of the struggles that took place to achieve better conditions for railway workers. Fred worked for many years as a fireman and then worked his way up the ranks to driver, experiencing many changes from the days of steam locomotives through to diesel trains, locomotives and even the modern XPT train. He worked throughout Victoria at different stages of his career, with his final working years focused on the northeast of Victoria and the Albury to Melbourne line. After his retirement, Fred continued to share his love of steam miniature trains with the community.This collection has local and statewide significance as it captures images of trains, locomotives and personnel who operated the railway services in Wodonga and throughout Northeast Victoria. The railways played a critical role in opening up Victoria and connecting Australia for trade, business, social communication and transport.Driver Tom Black and Fireman Hec Lloyd Preparing to depart on the "Spirit of Progress' at Spencer Street Station, Melbourne. Ton Black was born on 9 November 1891. He started cleaning with Victorian Railways on 3 March 1917. Tom passed his Driver qualification on 19 March 1936. He was a Driver on Commonwealth from 1943 to 1944. The Commonwealth Railways CA class was a class of 4-6-0 steam locomotives purchased by the Commonwealth Railways, Australia from the USA through Lend-Lease during World War II. The two locomotives in the class, CA78 and CA79, had been built in 1907 and 1905 by Baldwin Locomotive Works, Philadelphia, USA. They arrived in Australia in August 1943 and were used on the Trans-Australian Railway. CA78 was withdrawn in 1945 and CA79 in 1950. Both were scrapped in 1956.railways wodonga, fred rochow, wodonga railwaymen, tom black, fireman hec lloyd, "spirit of progress", commonwealth railways ca class

The Fred Rochow Railways Collection incorporates photos related to the operation of the Wodonga Railway Station including different types of trains and railways staff C. 1930 – 1990. It was donated to the Wodonga Historical Society by Fred Rochow, a railwayman who spent many years based in Wodonga. He joined the Victorian Railways on 17th June l947 and retired in 1988. For some time, he was a member of the Australian Federated Union of Locomotive Enginemen and served a term as a member of the Trades Hall Council. He had an extensive knowledge of the struggles that took place to achieve better conditions for railway workers. Fred worked for many years as a fireman and then worked his way up the ranks to driver, experiencing many changes from the days of steam locomotives through to diesel trains, locomotives and even the modern XPT train. He worked throughout Victoria at different stages of his career, with his final working years focused on the northeast of Victoria and the Albury to Melbourne line. After his retirement, Fred continued to share his love of steam miniature trains with the community.This collection has local and statewide significance as it captures images of trains, locomotives and personnel who operated the railway services in Wodonga and throughout Northeast Victoria. The railways played a critical role in opening up Victoria and connecting Australia for trade, business, social communication and transport.Driver George Henry Lynch (standing) with Fireman Jack Anderson. This photo was taken the day after the first regular run of the "Spirit of Progress". The Spirit of Progress was the premier express passenger train on the Victorian Railways in Australia, running from Melbourne to the New South Wales border at Albury, and later through to Sydney. From its introduction in November 1937 until April 1962 the train service ran on 1,600 mm (5 ft 3 in) broad gauge line from Melbourne's Spencer Street station to Albury, on the New South Wales / Victorian border, where passengers changed to a New South Wales Government Railways train (the Melbourne Limited Express). Following the completion of the standard gauge line between Melbourne and Albury in April 1962 the Spirit of Progress was extended to Sydney. With declining passenger numbers it was decided to combine the Spirit of Progress and Southern Aurora into one train, the Sydney/Melbourne Express. The Spirit of Progress ran for the last time on 2 August 1986. V/Line rostered S301 Sir Thomas Mitchell to haul the last journeys in Victoria.railways wodonga, fred rochow, wodonga railwaymen, george henry lynch, jack anderson, spirit of progress

The Fred Rochow Railways Collection incorporates photos related to the operation of the Wodonga Railway Station including different types of trains and railways staff C. 1930 – 1990. It was donated to the Wodonga Historical Society by Fred Rochow, a railwayman who spent many years based in Wodonga. He joined the Victorian Railways on 17th June l947 and retired in 1988. For some time, he was a member of the Australian Federated Union of Locomotive Enginemen and served a term as a member of the Trades Hall Council. He had an extensive knowledge of the struggles that took place to achieve better conditions for railway workers. Fred worked for many years as a fireman and then worked his way up the ranks to driver, experiencing many changes from the days of steam locomotives through to diesel trains, locomotives and even the modern XPT train. He worked throughout Victoria at different stages of his career, with his final working years focused on the northeast of Victoria and the Albury to Melbourne line. After his retirement, Fred continued to share his love of steam miniature trains with the community.This collection has local and statewide significance as it captures images of trains, locomotives and personnel who operated the railway services in Wodonga and throughout Northeast Victoria. The railways played a critical role in opening up Victoria and connecting Australia for trade, business, social communication and transport.Newspaper Cutting, Undated, Source Unknown- Photo of George Padgett George Padgett was born into a railway family in Numurkah, Victoria on 3 February 1890. He began working for the Victorian Railways as a junior clerk in Maryborough and gained his Driver’s ticket in 1914 at North Melbourne. He was based at Ararat for some time, then transferred to Dimboola in 1926. In November 1937 when the “Spirit of Progress” made its first run from Melbourne to Albury, he was moved to Wodonga. From the train's first return trip he took over the driving. During his career, he made an average of 92 round trips a year. George made his last trip on 4 February 1955 prior to his retirement. George died in Wodonga on 19 February 1967. Below the image "You see them reunited - while Spirit of Progress driver George Padgett looks on happily."railways wodonga, fred rochow, wodonga railwaymen, spirit of progress, george padgett

The Fred Rochow Railways Collection incorporates photos related to the operation of the Wodonga Railway Station including different types of trains and railways staff C. 1930 – 1990. It was donated to the Wodonga Historical Society by Fred Rochow, a railwayman who spent many years based in Wodonga. He joined the Victorian Railways on 17th June l947 and retired in 1988. For some time, he was a member of the Australian Federated Union of Locomotive Enginemen and served a term as a member of the Trades Hall Council. He had an extensive knowledge of the struggles that took place to achieve better conditions for railway workers. Fred worked for many years as a fireman and then worked his way up the ranks to driver, experiencing many changes from the days of steam locomotives through to diesel trains, locomotives and even the modern XPT train. He worked throughout Victoria at different stages of his career, with his final working years focused on the northeast of Victoria and the Albury to Melbourne line. After his retirement, Fred continued to share his love of steam miniature trains with the community.This collection has local and statewide significance as it captures images of trains, locomotives and personnel who operated the railway services in Wodonga and throughout Northeast Victoria. The railways played a critical role in opening up Victoria and connecting Australia for trade, business, social communication and transport.Railway Commissioner Harold Clapp and Mrs. Clapp ready to leave Albury on the "Spirit of Progress" in 1938. The Driver is George Lynch Snr. and the Fireman is E. Finley. Sir Harold Winthrop Clapp (7 May 1875 – 21 October 1952) was a transport administrator with the Victorian Railways who over the course of 30 years revolutionised the railways in Victoria. Clapp introduced faster services and more powerful locomotives, supported the farming sector and presented a report on standardising rail gauges which then led to a uniform rail gauge across capital cities. His most well-known project was the upgrade of the Sydney Limited service into the all-steel, all-air-conditioned, non-stop, high-speed express streamliner, Spirit of Progress which was launched on 17 November 1937. Clapp became Chairman of Commissioners of Victorian Railways in 1920 and remained Chairman until his retirement in 1951. Harold W Clapp was appointed a Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire (KBE) in 1941 in recognition of his contribution to public service.railways wodonga, fred rochow, wodonga railwaymen, s class locomotive

The Fred Rochow Railways Collection incorporates photos related to the operation of the Wodonga Railway Station including different types of trains and railways staff C. 1930 – 1990. It was donated to the Wodonga Historical Society by Fred Rochow, a railwayman who spent many years based in Wodonga. He joined the Victorian Railways on 17th June l947 and retired in 1988. For some time, he was a member of the Australian Federated Union of Locomotive Enginemen and served a term as a member of the Trades Hall Council. He had an extensive knowledge of the struggles that took place to achieve better conditions for railway workers. Fred worked for many years as a fireman and then worked his way up the ranks to driver, experiencing many changes from the days of steam locomotives through to diesel trains, locomotives and even the modern XPT train. He worked throughout Victoria at different stages of his career, with his final working years focused on the northeast of Victoria and the Albury to Melbourne line. After his retirement, Fred continued to share his love of steam miniature trains with the community.This collection has local and statewide significance as it captures images of trains, locomotives and personnel who operated the railway services in Wodonga and throughout Northeast Victoria. The railways played a critical role in opening up Victoria and connecting Australia for trade, business, social communication and transport. Ray Murphy- First Driver on the "Spirit of Progress". "Spirit of Progress" Drivers were the only Drivers issued with wings to wear on their caps.railways wodonga, fred rochow, wodonga railwaymen, spirit of progress, ray murphy

The Fred Rochow Railways Collection incorporates photos related to the operation of the Wodonga Railway Station including different types of trains and railways staff C. 1930 – 1990. It was donated to the Wodonga Historical Society by Fred Rochow, a railwayman who spent many years based in Wodonga. He joined the Victorian Railways on 17th June l947 and retired in 1988. For some time, he was a member of the Australian Federated Union of Locomotive Enginemen and served a term as a member of the Trades Hall Council. He had an extensive knowledge of the struggles that took place to achieve better conditions for railway workers. Fred worked for many years as a fireman and then worked his way up the ranks to driver, experiencing many changes from the days of steam locomotives through to diesel trains, locomotives and even the modern XPT train. He worked throughout Victoria at different stages of his career, with his final working years focused on the northeast of Victoria and the Albury to Melbourne line. After his retirement, Fred continued to share his love of steam miniature trains with the community.This collection has local and statewide significance as it captures images of trains, locomotives and personnel who operated the railway services in Wodonga and throughout Northeast Victoria. The railways played a critical role in opening up Victoria and connecting Australia for trade, business, social communication and transport.Colleagues at the retirement function for Locomotive Driver Jack Schmidt who was one of the Drivers of the "Spirit of Progress" Standing left to right: Alex Reid, Eric Molloy, Cyril Tannock, Ray Murphy Seated: Jack Schmidt railways wodonga, fred rochow, wodonga railwaymen, jack schmidt, spirit of progress

The Fred Rochow Railways Collection incorporates photos related to the operation of the Wodonga Railway Station including different types of trains and railways staff C. 1930 – 1990. It was donated to the Wodonga Historical Society by Fred Rochow, a railwayman who spent many years based in Wodonga. He joined the Victorian Railways on 17th June l947 and retired in 1988. For some time, he was a member of the Australian Federated Union of Locomotive Enginemen and served a term as a member of the Trades Hall Council. He had an extensive knowledge of the struggles that took place to achieve better conditions for railway workers. Fred worked for many years as a fireman and then worked his way up the ranks to driver, experiencing many changes from the days of steam locomotives through to diesel trains, locomotives and even the modern XPT train. He worked throughout Victoria at different stages of his career, with his final working years focused on the northeast of Victoria and the Albury to Melbourne line. After his retirement, Fred continued to share his love of steam miniature trains with the community.This collection has local and statewide significance as it captures images of trains, locomotives and personnel who operated the railway services in Wodonga and throughout Northeast Victoria. The railways played a critical role in opening up Victoria and connecting Australia for trade, business, social communication and transport.The "Spirit of Progress" on a test run prior to its official launch being hauled by Locomotive S303. It was named the C.J. LaTrobe after the1st Lieutenant-Governor of Victoria, Charles Joseph Latrobe. Considered by many to be Victorian Railways' greatest passenger locomotives, the 4 S class steam locomotives were the first 3 cylinder steam locomotives. This small class was built to run the Melbourne to Albury passenger trains and spent their entire careers on the North East line. They were built unstreamlined and ran in this condition until 1937. The streamlining modifications complimented the all new "Spirit Of Progress" carriages. The S class ran the "Spirit" until 1952 at which time the newly delivered B class diesels took over. The 4 S class locomotive which were allocated to the "Spirit of Progress" were S300 - the "Mathew Flinders", withdrawn in September 1954, having covered 1,379,791 miles. S301 - the "Sir Thomas Mitchell", withdrawn in October 1953, having covered 1,414,367 miles. S302 - the "Edward Henty", withdrawn in July 1954, having covered 1,446,468 miles and S303 - the "C.J. Latrobe", withdrawn in May 1954, having covered 1,434,664 miles.On the lower front of the Locomotive "S303"railways wodonga, fred rochow, wodonga railwaymen, spirit of progress, s class steam locomotives

The Fred Rochow Railways Collection incorporates photos related to the operation of the Wodonga Railway Station including different types of trains and railways staff C. 1930 – 1990. It was donated to the Wodonga Historical Society by Fred Rochow, a railwayman who spent many years based in Wodonga. He joined the Victorian Railways on 17th June l947 and retired in 1988. For some time, he was a member of the Australian Federated Union of Locomotive Enginemen and served a term as a member of the Trades Hall Council. He had an extensive knowledge of the struggles that took place to achieve better conditions for railway workers. Fred worked for many years as a fireman and then worked his way up the ranks to driver, experiencing many changes from the days of steam locomotives through to diesel trains, locomotives and even the modern XPT train. He worked throughout Victoria at different stages of his career, with his final working years focused on the northeast of Victoria and the Albury to Melbourne line. After his retirement, Fred continued to share his love of steam miniature trains with the community.This collection has local and statewide significance as it captures images of trains, locomotives and personnel who operated the railway services in Wodonga and throughout Northeast Victoria. The railways played a critical role in opening up Victoria and connecting Australia for trade, business, social communication and transport.Left to right: Jack Hinchcliffe, George Lynch, Bill Orchard, Hec Lloyd, ; BILL ROWE; Bill Rowe, Bill McLaren, Jack Dore, Jack Bowden, George Judge, Harry Alderson, Charlie Edmondson, Fireman Cyril Hughes. Cyril Hughes was born on 30 January 1903, started cleaning on 17 December 1924 and passed his Driving Qualifications on 27 June1941. "Sir Thomas Mitchell" Considered by many to be Victorian Railways' greatest passenger locomotives, the 4 S class steam locomotives were the first 3 cylinder steam locomotives. This small class was built to run the Melbourne to Albury passenger trains and spent their entire careers on the North East line. They were built unstreamlined and ran in this condition until 1937. The streamlining modifications complimented the all new "Spirit Of Progress" carriages. The S class ran the "Spirit" until 1952 at which time the newly delivered B class diesels took over. Locomotive S301 - the "Sir Thomas Mitchell" was withdrawn in October 1953, having covered 1,414,367 miles. On the locomotive in the background "SIR THOMAS MITCHELL"railways wodonga, fred rochow, wodonga railwaymen, steam locomotive s301, locomotive "sir thomas mitchell"

non-fictionThis book is the story of the hundred years of the Sydney-Melbourne railway connection. It is about the trains - the Express, the Limited, the Spirit of Progress, the Southern Aurora - and the locomotives that pulled them.sydney-melbourne railway, train travel australia, railways australia

The Fred Rochow Railways Collection incorporates photos related to the operation of the Wodonga Railway Station including different types of trains and railways staff C. 1930 – 1990. It was donated to the Wodonga Historical Society by Fred Rochow, a railwayman who spent many years based in Wodonga. He joined the Victorian Railways on 17th June l947 and retired in 1988. For some time, he was a member of the Australian Federated Union of Locomotive Enginemen and served a term as a member of the Trades Hall Council. He had an extensive knowledge of the struggles that took place to achieve better conditions for railway workers. Fred worked for many years as a fireman and then worked his way up the ranks to driver, experiencing many changes from the days of steam locomotives through to diesel trains, locomotives and even the modern XPT train. He worked throughout Victoria at different stages of his career, with his final working years focused on the northeast of Victoria and the Albury to Melbourne line. After his retirement, Fred continued to share his love of steam miniature trains with the community. George Padgett was born into a railway family in Numurkah, Victoria on 3 February 1890. He began working for the Victorian Railways as a junior clerk in Maryborough and gained his Driver’s ticket in 1913 at North Melbourne. In November 1937 when the “Spirit of Progress” made its first run from Melbourne to Albury, he was moved to Wodonga. From the train's first return trip he took over the driving. During his career, he made an average of 92 round trips a year. George made his last trip on 4 February 1955 prior to his retirement. George died in Wodonga on 19 February 1967. This collection has local and statewide significance as it captures images of trains, locomotives and personnel who operated the railway services in Wodonga and throughout Northeast Victoria. The railways played a critical role in opening up Victoria and connecting Australia for trade, business, social communication and transport.A group of men gathered at a retirement function for George Padgett in 1955. George was a driver on the "Spirit of Progress". Back Row: Cyril Hughes, Steve Cuper, Ted Hamilton, Lloyd Holmes, George Lloyd, Frank Fulford, Tom Guinane (?), Mick Kowalzuk (?) Centre Row: Bill Welsh, Eric Molloy, Tom Fitzgerald, Reg Feitz (?), Unknown, George Taylor, Bill Baldock, Reg Matthews, Ted Jenkins, Buddy Straghan(?), Unknown. Seated Front Row: Vic Jones, Vin Snow, Jack Dawe. George Padgett, Alex Reid, ? Lawson, Unknown, Austin Fulford, Doug West, Wally Riley, Norm Davey, Unknown, Wally McGeachin (Clerk), Morrie Flanigan.railways wodonga, fred rochow, k class locomotives

The Fred Rochow Railways Collection incorporates photos related to the operation of the Wodonga Railway Station including different types of trains and railways staff C. 1930 – 1990. It was donated to the Wodonga Historical Society by Fred Rochow, a railwayman who spent many years based in Wodonga. He joined the Victorian Railways on 17th June l947 and retired in 1988. For some time, he was a member of the Australian Federated Union of Locomotive Enginemen and served a term as a member of the Trades Hall Council. He had an extensive knowledge of the struggles that took place to achieve better conditions for railway workers. Fred worked for many years as a fireman and then worked his way up the ranks to driver, experiencing many changes from the days of steam locomotives through to diesel trains, locomotives and even the modern XPT train. He worked throughout Victoria at different stages of his career, with his final working years focused on the northeast of Victoria and the Albury to Melbourne line. After his retirement, Fred continued to share his love of steam miniature trains with the community.This collection has local and statewide significance as it captures images of trains, locomotives and personnel who operated the railway services in Wodonga and throughout Northeast Victoria. The railways played a critical role in opening up Victoria and connecting Australia for trade, business, social communication and transport.Left to right: W. Orchard, Hec Lloyd, Jack Hinchcliffe, Charlie Edmondson, George Lynch, Jack Bowden, Driver Tommy Black. "Edward Henty" Considered by many to be Victorian Railways' greatest passenger locomotives, the 4 S class steam locomotives were the first 3 cylinder steam locomotives. This small class was built to run the Melbourne to Albury passenger trains and spent their entire careers on the North East line. They were built unstreamlined and ran in this condition until 1937. The streamlining modifications complimented the all new "Spirit Of Progress" carriages. The S class ran the "Spirit" until 1952 at which time the newly delivered B class diesels took over. Locomotive S302 - the "Edward Henty" was withdrawn in July 1954, having covered 1,446,468 miles. On the locomotive in the background "EDWARD HENTY"railways wodonga, fred rochow, wodonga railwaymen, steam locomotive 302, edward henty

The Fred Rochow Railways Collection incorporates photos related to the operation of the Wodonga Railway Station including different types of trains and railways staff C. 1930 – 1990. It was donated to the Wodonga Historical Society by Fred Rochow, a railwayman who spent many years based in Wodonga. He joined the Victorian Railways on 17th June l947 and retired in 1988. For some time, he was a member of the Australian Federated Union of Locomotive Enginemen and served a term as a member of the Trades Hall Council. He had an extensive knowledge of the struggles that took place to achieve better conditions for railway workers. Fred worked for many years as a fireman and then worked his way up the ranks to driver, experiencing many changes from the days of steam locomotives through to diesel trains, locomotives and even the modern XPT train. He worked throughout Victoria at different stages of his career, with his final working years focused on the northeast of Victoria and the Albury to Melbourne line. After his retirement, Fred continued to share his love of steam miniature trains with the community.This collection has local and statewide significance as it captures images of trains, locomotives and personnel who operated the railway services in Wodonga and throughout Northeast Victoria. The railways played a critical role in opening up Victoria and connecting Australia for trade, business, social communication and transport.Supplement to the Argus. Described as "Australia's first completely aid-conditioned, all-steel, streamlined train for the Melbourne-Albury section of the Sydney Limited service., Victoria. Constructed at the Railway Shops, Newport, Victoria, it is a splendid tribute to the excellence of the work of Australian craftsmen". "Spirit of Progress" entered service on Tuesday 23 November 1937.railways wodonga, fred rochow, wodonga railwaymen, spirit of progress

The Fred Rochow Railways Collection incorporates photos related to the operation of the Wodonga Railway Station including different types of trains and railways staff C. 1930 – 1990. It was donated to the Wodonga Historical Society by Fred Rochow, a railwayman who spent many years based in Wodonga. He joined the Victorian Railways on 17th June l947 and retired in 1988. For some time, he was a member of the Australian Federated Union of Locomotive Enginemen and served a term as a member of the Trades Hall Council. He had an extensive knowledge of the struggles that took place to achieve better conditions for railway workers. Fred worked for many years as a fireman and then worked his way up the ranks to driver, experiencing many changes from the days of steam locomotives through to diesel trains, locomotives and even the modern XPT train. He worked throughout Victoria at different stages of his career, with his final working years focused on the northeast of Victoria and the Albury to Melbourne line. After his retirement, Fred continued to share his love of steam miniature trains with the community.This collection has local and statewide significance as it captures images of trains, locomotives and personnel who operated the railway services in Wodonga and throughout Northeast Victoria. The railways played a critical role in opening up Victoria and connecting Australia for trade, business, social communication and transport. “Albury Express” on broad gauge flanked by “Spirit of Progress” on standard gauge. This photo was presented to Mr. Quirk, to celebrate the Centenary Celebration of the Northeast Railway line from Melbourne to Wodonga, November 1873 to 1973. From your Station Master. S.E. Simpsonrailways wodonga, fred rochow, northeast line centenary